Two late goals from top-scorer Keith Smyth secured Clare's place in the Munster U20HC final at Tipperary's expense last evening.

Smyth finished with 2-7 after bagging 2-2 in the closing 10 minutes as the Banner prevailed by 3-17 to 0-17 to advance to their first provincial final in the U20 / U21 grade since 2015 where they will face Cork. By coincidence, the same two counties will face off in tonight's Munster MHC final.

A strong defensive effort was also key for Terence Fahy's charges who had to make do without their senior-tied full back Adam Hogan. A David Kennedy goal had the visitors 1-1 to 0-3 up after 11 minutes, but three points from Eddie Ryan helped Tipp to a 0-10 to 1-5 lead by the 25th minute. However, Clare finished the half strongly to regain parity at the break, 1-8 to 0-11.

The sides were still level with five minutes of normal time remaining, but Smyth then took centre stage to win it for Clare.

 

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